Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Practice Test

When a behavior analyst runs several tests of her treatment before formal implementation, which underlying assumption is she following?

1. Determinism

2. Empiricism

3. Technological

4. Applied

The correct answer is: Empiricism

The correct choice involves the principle of empiricism. Empiricism is the practice of basing knowledge on observable and measurable evidence. When a behavior analyst conducts various tests of her treatment before formal implementation, she is collecting data and evaluating the effectiveness of her methods through observation and experimentation. This reliance on empirical evidence is fundamental in the field of behavior analysis, as it helps ensure that the interventions are grounded in data rather than assumptions or theoretical constructs. In this context, testing the treatment aligns with empiricism as it emphasizes the importance of systematic observation and the collection of data to inform decisions about the effectiveness and appropriateness of the intervention. This approach aids in making informed adjustments and improvements before widespread application, ultimately contributing to more reliable and valid results.